The final preseason game may not feature too many stars, but it is a critical final test for several players. C. Trent Rosecrans looks at who needs a big game against the Colts.
Sure, it seems useless, but for some players, the final preseason game does actually mean something.
No, not guys like Carson Palmer or Chad Johnson, who will be wearing baseball hats instead of helmets, or even T.J. Houshmandzadeh who will play, but for several guys this could be the biggest game (or last) of the season.
LB Ahmad Brooks: The Bengals used a third-round supplemental draft in 2006, started five games in 2006 and two last season. Although he had a promising start with eight tackles and a sack in the season-opener a year ago, he missed most of the season with a groin injury. Dhani Jones was picked up to replace him and Brooks hasn't seemed to make the adjustments needed to be part of the Bengals' future. Unless there’s an injury or he looks great, he could be on the outside looking in on Saturday.
DE Eric Henderson: He's been with the Bengals the last two years, but hasn't played a game with the team. Hampered by injuries this preseason, Henderson has yet to play in a game. He's scheduled to play against the Colts. But it looks like Frostee Rucker has the inside track on the final defensive end spot.
CB David Jones: Plenty of talent, but Jones has struggled in the preseason. He needs to improve, but it looks like he'll make the squad.
CB Deltha O'Neal: Another cornerback with a lackluster preseason. O'Neal's been good in the past, but at 31 can he still keep up? He needs to play well, but will likely end up staying as the team’s fourth cornerback.
WR Glenn Holt: Holt's stock has been going up in the last couple of weeks, with two catches for 22 yards and a touchdown in the preseason. With Andre Caldwell hobbled, he's the team’s best option as a kickoff returner.
TE Nate Lawrie: With the addition of Ben Utecht, the tight end position may be too crowded for Lawrie, who has played for the Bucs and Saints before coming to Cincinnati.
Practice squad candidates:
S John Busing: Miami U alum has played in the past, but as a third-year player could find his way to the practice squad.
TE Matt Sherry: Hasn't played the last two preseason games and could find his way to the practice squad as insurance for other tight ends.
LB Dan Howell: Despite being hurt for much of training camp, the coaches like what they've seen from Howell, an undrafted rookie from Washington.
DE Angelo Craig: Craig's played well on special teams as well as recording a sack and four tackles in the preseason. He also had the best special teams block in the preseason in the game against the Lions.
QB Jordan Palmer: With Carl-Johan Bjork not counting against the practice squad limit, it could be a good time for the Bengals to have a QB on the practice squad.
CB Simeon Castille: Has the size and instincts to play corner and nickel, but needs more seasoning.
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